Originally Posted by
zib
Like the others, I use my DMT's for knives mostly, and the coarser one's for lapping XX and C. If I have a very difficult bevel, I'll use a Dmt, but it's rare. I've tried the fine and extra fine, and even had the EE or 8000 mesh. The EE I sent back. I couldn't tell one side from the other. The vendor said "Use the text on the side to tell." Lately, I'm enjoying the newer stones coming out of Japan like the Suehiro and Chosera's. For most of my honing, I use the Shapton GS series.
I've never used lapping film either. I tried to get some and had a difficult time with the vendor, so I gave up. One thing I haven't found is any variance in Escher. They seem to be the only consistent natural I've ever found. YMMV. I with you on the Jnats. There needs to be a college course on them. Not only that, you need to watch out for counterfeit stones.
It's good to hear your getting nice shaves off yours.